James Edward "Dusty" Rhodes

James was born in Jackson, Tennessee on November 24, 1926 to the late Virgil Dallas Rhodes and Bertha Lucille Warren. James was raised on a small farm, the middle of three brothers and a sister. James grew up in the hard times of the depression but grew into a tender-hearted man. He remained in Jackson his entire life. He married Lois Mary Kelly and raised two children, a son James Thomas Rhodes and a daughter Deborah Jane Rhodes.

Following in the footsteps of the other men in the family, at the age of 15 James went to work as a journeyman for the GM&O railroad, and rose to master electrician. After years with the railroad James found the opportunity to pursue another dream. In the 1960’s, this time following his heart, James travelled to San Francisco to train at Vidal Sassoon’s academy. He went on to own one of the most successful salons in Jackson. James was known for his compassion and good cheer, entertaining all with a seemingly endless source of jokes and reminiscences. James was proud of his Masonic membership and passionate about the Shriners’ charitable work. James continued to work into his 90’s taking great pleasure in his independence.

He is survived by his daughter Deborah, four grandchildren, Barbie Miller, Jim Morris, Savannah Esposito and Penelope Rhodes-Podryski and two great grandchildren, Xander Esposito and Clay Brooks.

He was adored by many and was the best father and grandfather anyone could imagine. We are blessed that Dusty was part of our lives for some many years.

Visitation with the family will be on Wednesday, December 14, 2022 from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 pm at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons with entombment in the mausoleum in Highland Memorial Gardens.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.GeorgeASmithandSons.com for the Rhodes family.